Pre-service Teacher Perceptions of Preparedness: Collaboration with Diverse Families of Children with Disabilities

Authors

Guofeng Shen, University of Northern ColoradoFollow
Sandy Bowen, University of Northern ColoradoFollow

Abstract

Collaboration between educators and families is a critical issue in the field of education. This topic becomes even more salient when working with culturally, linguistically, or economically diverse families of children with disabilities. Both research and practice have shown that many educators enter the profession without adequate preparation for this aspect of their role. This study examined pre-service teachers' attitudes, comfort level and perceived preparedness to collaborate with diverse families of children with disabilities while completing their university teacher preparation programs. A total of 159 pre-service teachers representing 40 institutions completed an online survey addressing this topic. Results indicated a) pre-service teachers felt largely unprepared to collaborate with diverse families, b) coursework and practicum experiences were positively associated with attitude, comfort level and preparedness in collaborating with diverse families, and c) hands-on strategies, such as role play, Family as Faculty approaches and practical learning within the world of diverse settings were recommended. Implications for practice and future research will also be discussed.

Recommended Citation

Shen, Guofeng and Bowen, Sandy (2025) "Pre-service Teacher Perceptions of Preparedness: Collaboration with Diverse Families of Children with Disabilities," Journal of Educational Research and Innovation: Vol. 13, Article 6.
Available at: https://digscholarship.unco.edu/jeri/vol13/iss1/6